The Potential Benefits of Quercetin for Brain Health: A Review of Anti-Inflammatory and Neuroprotective Mechanisms

Abstract

Neuroinflammation is a critical factor in developing and progressing numerous brain diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases. Chronic or excessive neuroinflammation can lead to neurotoxicity, causing brain damage and contributing to the onset and progression of various brain diseases. Therefore, understanding neuroinflammation mechanisms and developing strategies to control them is crucial for treating brain diseases. Studies have shown that neuroinflammation plays a vital role in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s (PD), and stroke. Additionally, the effects of PM2.5 pollution on the brain, including neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity, are well-documented. Quercetin is a flavonoid, a plant pigment in many fruits, vegetables, and grains. Quercetin has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. Quercetin may also have a positive impact on immune function and allergy symptoms. In addition, quercetin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties and can activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a cellular energy sensor that modulates inflammation and oxidative stress. By reducing inflammation and protecting against neuroinflammatory toxicity, quercetin holds promise as a safe and effective adjunctive therapy for treating neurodegenerative diseases and other brain disorders. Understanding and controlling the mechanisms of NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome pathways are crucial for preventing and treating conditions, and quercetin may be a promising tool in this effort. This review article aims to discuss the role of neuroinflammation in the development and progression of various brain disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases and stroke, and the impact of PM2.5 pollution on the brain. The paper also highlights quercetin’s potential health benefits and anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of quercetin: A focus on its sirtuin‐mediated benefits

“…Quercetin has neuroprotective effects against several pathologies. These effects are further enhanced by its antioxidant properties (Chiang et al, 2023). Quercetin acts as a potent reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger, utilizing two pharmacophores within its molecular structure to effectively eliminate free radicals (L. G. Costa et al, 2016).…”

Quercetin Exhibits Preferential Binding Interaction by Selectively Targeting HRAS1 I-Motif DNA-Forming Promoter Sequences

“…Several studies have revealed that flavonoids may protect against a variety of illnesses, including cancer, cardiovascular illness, neurological disorders, along with other age-related maladies. , Flavonoids’ great pharmacological efficacy and minimal cytotoxicity promote them as potential substitutes for traditional medicinal drugs. We chose quercetin (Que) for this investigation because it is the most prevalent nutritional plant flavonoid and has been shown to have various health benefits. − Furthermore, Que has a high spectroscopic relevance due to its unusual “two-color” fluorescence capabilities (Figure b), which may be used to detect iM DNA. In an aqueous buffer, free Que emits little fluorescence.…”

Exploring the mechanisms of kaempferol in neuroprotection: Implications for neurological disorders

“…16,17 Flavonols can also enhance the anti-inflammatory response by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, which is a master regulator of antioxidant and cytoprotective genes. 18 Another important mechanism of flavonols in neurological diseases is the modulation of neuronal survival and plasticity, which are essential for maintaining the cognitive function and memory.…”

“…Flavonols can protect the neurons from oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, and apoptosis by scavenging ROS and RNS, regulating the glutamate receptors and calcium homeostasis, and modulating the mitochondrial function and the apoptotic pathways. 17,18 Flavonols can also promote the neuronal regeneration and differentiation by stimulating the neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, and neuritogenesis, and by enhancing the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), which are the key factors for neuronal growth and plasticity. 17,18 Numerous studies have documented the neuroprotective properties of quercetin in various in vitro and in vivo models of neurodegenerative conditions, including cognitive impairment, ischemia, traumatic injury, and PD.…”

“…17,18 Flavonols can also promote the neuronal regeneration and differentiation by stimulating the neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, and neuritogenesis, and by enhancing the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), which are the key factors for neuronal growth and plasticity. 17,18 Numerous studies have documented the neuroprotective properties of quercetin in various in vitro and in vivo models of neurodegenerative conditions, including cognitive impairment, ischemia, traumatic injury, and PD. 16 Quercetin can also modulate the monoaminergic neuroprotective effects in various experimental models of AD, PD, epilepsy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.…”